You might think that you have all the power you need for creating good looking equations in your word processor, but the truth is far from it - especially if you are a physics, math or science teacher, student or other professional that needs to prepare documents which contain mathematical equations.

We tested MathType 4 - made by Design Science, Inc. - which is a professional version of an Equation Editor - a similar product that the same company licenses for use in MS Word or Corel Word Perfect. We were delighted with the results.

MathType 4 is easy to use, powerful and customizable. Its interface is similar to what you are used to in your word processor (and it can be accessed through your word processor), with some added features.

There are more than twice as many math symbols and templates than in the Equation Editor so that you can build some pretty sophisticated math equations. We give an example where we used a symbol for a directional path integral (try doing this with an Equation Editor)

With MathType 4, you can export your equations into TeX, LaTeX, MathML, EPS or to a .GIF picture. Exporting is very easy - you just click on 'Save As' and then choose the file format of your preference. We created all of the equations presented on this page by saving them directly into a .GIF format. MathType 4 will even generate an HTML code that you need to insert into your web pages.

Somebody once said that 'color opens a whole new dimension to your documents' - and to your equations. Yes, it is true: we finally have an equation editor where one can color parts of equations with different colors. Color can be used very effectively in equations to convey structure and meaning.

The part in red is called the discriminant.

... or for those of you who are in love with Maxwell equations (as I am):

Notice how much easier it is to understand the structure of Maxwell's equations when they are written with color.

MathType 4 also features customizable toolbars for storing frequently used expressions, symbols and templates, as well as customizable keyboard shortcuts.

In conclusion, MathType 4 is an exceptional tool for writing mathematical equations, and if you have realized the limitations of the Equation Editor (EE) that comes with your word processor you should definitely try MathType 4. We leave you with the table that gives you a short summary of the differences between MathType 4 and Equation Editor.